The months a baby spends in the womb, along with the first 12 months after birth, are arguably the most important time of all for brain development. During this period, brain cells called neurons are forming connection with each other, creating the networks that underlie thinking, learning and feeling. Low birth weight can disrupt early brain development. Low birth weight babies are at increased risk for developmental problems related to physical health, psychological adjustment, and intellectual functioning.
Fragile Families Give Children Early Setbacks
September 10, 2012
Children don't choose the families they are born into, the neighborhoods in which they are raised or the policies that govern them. However, each of these influences plays a critical role in determining their future successes and failures. The Urban Child Institute's "2012 Data Book: The State of Children in Memphis and Shelby County" takes a closer look at the relationship between home environments and early childhood development, and the implications for later life outcomes.
One of the first decisions a new mother is called on to make can also be her smartest. It's the decision to breastfeed. A smart decision is to breastfeed for six months. A smarter decision is to breastfeed for a year. The longer a mother breastfeeds, the healthier it is for both the mother and the baby. Fortunately, for Shelby County babies, the number of mothers making the decision to breastfeed is increasing – up 41% overall between 2004 and 2010.
Today, your toddler feels left behind as their older brothers and sisters set out for school. But soon enough, they will be new kindergarteners! There is much that we as parents and caretakers can do right now to help them get ready. Early childhood social, emotional, and cognitive brain development is already establishing the foundation for their kindergarten readiness, and pathway to success in school and life.
Pre-K is Prerequisite for Student, Community Success
August 28, 2012
Around the world, a quality education is viewed as the golden ticket to a bright future. Local achievement rates reveal an urgent need to ensure that more students are being adequately prepared to cash in. Last week, the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) reported that the city of Memphis is leading the state with the highest number of low performing schools. Figures released by the TDOE last year show that a mere 4 percent of Memphis City Schools students, 20 percent of Shelby County School students, and only 10 percent of students state-wide are meeting college readiness benchmarks.
Education Can't Wait Until Age 5
August 14, 2012
Pre-K matters. This simple but profoundly important statement is the title of an infographic on the website of The Urban Child Institute. Pre-K is an investment with high returns. We have known for a while that early education, specifically pre-K, pays off in a student's success in school. Children who have experienced quality pre-K education are less likely to need special education or repeat a grade, and are more likely to graduate from high school and go to college.